Custom Pillow Cases as Gifts

Add custom decorations to a purchased pillowcase to create a gift that fits the style and taste of the receiver.

First, find out the size of pillow used. They come in Standard (approximately 20X26 inches), Queen (approximately 20x30 inches), and King (approximately 20x36 inches).

Next, decide on the color. Since the pillowcase may be used as a sham, the color can match or coordinate with the existing bed linens. When the color scheme is unknown, buy white or off-white as the classic neutral. Add color with ribbon, threads, or buttons. Embroider white on white for an elegant effect.

Finally, add the decoration to the pillowcase. Replace the hemmed edge or embellish it. A Google search can locate instructions for making pillowcases that will include how to add separate trim pieces.. The print fabric can be a bold solid, floral, striped, checked, or holiday themed. Good fabric candidates are in the bargain bin at the local fabric store.

Use a sewing machine that does fancy stitches to add ornamentation. Practice on scrap fabric to plan out what styles, what stitch size, and what color threads will look best. Take notes to more easily re-create the settings for length and bobbin tension. Look for fancy and metallic threads to include. Be sure to only use threads that are colorfast.

Another option is to hand stitch to add effects. A simple running stitch banding the pillowcase is an effective look. Try adding a second or third band in similar or contrasting colors.

Show off advanced or even beginner embroidery skills. For inspiration and free patterns, visit the DMC website. The patterns are organized by the type of embroidery thread used: cotton, light effects, pearl cotton, satin, and color variation. A popular embroidery style from 19th century Europe that is enjoying a comeback is called Redwork. In Redwork, only red thread is used. Another embroidery style to consider is Blue and White which recreates patterns and shades of blue used in Colonial times.

Adding ribbon to the pillowcase is another good idea to try. The quality and assortment of ribbons is inspiring. Buy online or through the local fabric store. They are available in a variety of patterns and colors. Add one length of ribbon or layer them. As with the thread, check that the ribbon used is colorfast. If the ribbon is made of cotton, pre-shrink it in warm water and then iron it flat before sewing it in place.

Look through button collections, or head to the fabric store, and select buttons in the shape, style, or color that compliment the project. Flat buttons will work best if the person getting the gift will use the pillowcase for sleeping. Nothing says all the buttons have to match. They can be equally spaced, or sewn in a pattern all their own. If the recipient's pillow is Standard or Queen, buy a case one size larger and then add buttons and buttonholes to close the hemmed edge and fashion a sham.

One final idea is applique. Create handmade applique and blind-stitch it in place or use the Stitch Witchery adhesive. Fabric and craft stores have a wide selection of pre-made appliques that can be used singly or as a collection.

Sources
A Redwork Embroidery Primer, http://www.prettyimpressivestuff.com/redwork.htm
Deerfield's Society of Blue and White Needlework: 1896-1926, http://www.quiltersmuse.com/Deerfield_Society_of_Blue_and_White_Needlework.htm